This short trail between Gorge and Diablo Lakes climbs steadily to a small pocket lake filled with floating "gardens" and great views of Pyramid Peak.

0

SHARES

For as large as the North Cascades National Park is, it has remarkably few easily accessible dayhiking opportunities. One such trail is a short, 2-mile climb to Pyramid Lake, a small, green pool tucked back into a high valley below Pyramid and Pinnacle Peaks.

Start the trail at the roadside trailhead, beginning the steady climb upward through forest of young fir trees, surrounded by slopes covered with salal. There are no views along the route, only the trail ahead and behind. Just below a mile up you'll temporarily be alongside the gently running Pyramid Creek, with its small cascades and pools. At 0.9 miles, look for a small cairn marking a creek crossing; it's easy to miss. Cross to the other side, following a few more cairns along the opposite bank before picking up the trail again.

As you continue to climb, the forest transitions to more old-growth fir and hemlock, many towering high above you, and groundcover fern and other shrubs. Pass through a section of heavy deadfall to the foot of another slope, a couple long, steep switchbacks, then descend a short distance to the overgrown shore of Pyramid Lake. Skirt left on a faint trail to a clear section for a few nice rock seats worthy of a Mojo Bar or a handful of gorp, and enjoy the floating log "gardens" in the deep green water, with Pyramid Peak high overhead.